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Shimla Express & India's Golden Triangle

From $5,099pp
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Holiday Overview

Departure Date: 24 March 2025 - 13 Nights
Alternative Departure Dates Available
  • Duration 13 NIGHTS
  • Departure Date Range Feb 2025 - Mar 2025
  • Holiday type Rail Journeys
  • Holiday code TRA2267

INCLUDES 5★ FULLY ESCORTED TOUR

Experience the vibrant colours, sights and sounds of India during an iconic rail journey and a series of immersive tours, as you explore the gleaming Golden Triangle.

Your holiday begins in Delhi, where you’ll discover its multi-layered existence and captivating contrasts during a full day tour, before travelling to Agra for the highlight of your holiday: a visit to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Next, you’ll venture to Ranthambore National Park, where you’ll relish close encounters with India’s endemic wildlife.

Your Golden Triangle tour then continues in Jaipur. Discover the deserted 16th-century city of Fatehpur Sikri before reaching the ‘Pink City’ with its colourful old quarters and beautiful surrounding countryside. Finally, you’ll embark the famous Himalayan Queen on an iconic journey through the majestic Himalayas, to Shimla, where you’ll spend three nights, concluding your holiday.

Your Imagine Holiday Includes

Rail Journey

Scenic rail journey from Kalka to Shimla on board the Himalayan Queen

Fully Escorted Tours

Tour of Jama Masjid Mosque, Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar and more

Tour of the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri

Tour of Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, the City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory and more

Trail walk through the Himalayas

Game drives through Ranthambore National Park*

Shimla sightseeing city tour

Hotel Stays

4 night five-star hotel stay in Delhi at the Vivanta Dwarka New Delhi

1 night five-star hotel stay in Agra at the ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

2 night five-star hotel stay in Ranthambore at the Hotel Ranthambore Regency with breakfast, lunch and dinner  

2 night five-star hotel stay in Jaipur at the ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection Hotel

3 night four-star hotel stay in Shimla at the Welcomheritage Elysium

All hotel stays include breakfast

All Flights, Taxes and Transfers
Named hotels are based on availability and are subject to change without notice. Alternative hotels will always be of equal or higher star rating.
The departure date is subject to change based on flight times specified during the booking process.
*Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Your Tour

Your Itinerary

Day 1
Delhi: Hotel Stay

India’s sprawling capital formed by several ancient cities melding together through the centuries. Here you’ll find UNESCO world heritage sites sitting comfortably alongside innovative modern architecture like the florally inspired curves of the Lotus Temple.

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Day 2
Delhi: Hotel Stay & Tour

In Old Delhi, explore the Jama Masjid Mosque, the largest in India, whose courtyard can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. Admire the well-preserved ramparts of the Red Fort and mingle with throngs of locals at Khari Baoli Street market.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Day 3
Agra: Hotel Stay & Tour

Prepare yourself for the one of the greatest love letters in the world – the Taj Mahal. Made of polished white marble and inlaid with a king’s ransom of jewels, this is one of the world’s most recognisable buildings.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: ITC Mughal

Day 4
Ranthambore National Park: Hotel Stay

You’ll arrive at Ranthambore by evening and check in to your hotel. Nestling at the foot of the Aravalli Hills, the Ranthambore National Park is an outstanding example of the implementation of Project Tiger.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Ranthambore Regency

Day 5
Ranthambore National Park: Hotel Stay & Tour

Embark on an exciting and unforgettable game drive in a shared canter. Journey through the captivating landscape filled with glassy lakes, dense trees and ruins of ancient monuments as you keep lookout for the jungle’s majestic inhabitants.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Ranthambore Regency

Day 6
Jaipur: Hotel Stay

Following breakfast in the hotel, you’ll check out and be driven to Jaipur. En route to the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, you’ll stop for lunch before checking in to your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: ITC Rajputana

Day 7
Jaipur: Hotel Stay & Tour

The mountain-top Amber Fort is one of the architectural gems of Jaipur. Rajasthan’s mountain-fringed capital is also home to the Hawa Mahal, a building festooned with latticed balconies from which royal ladies could view the street below.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: ITC Rajputana

Day 8
Delhi: Hotel Stay

Return to Delhi where you’ll enjoy an overnight hotel stay. From ancient tales to modern aspirations, Delhi encapsulates India’s dynamic spirit and offers a captivating journey through time.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Day 9
Kalka: Board the Himalayan Queen & Shimla Hotel Stay

Boarding the Himalayan Queen for a journey along a UNESCO World Heritage Site railway track. Upon arriving in Shimla, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for your three-night stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Welcomheritage Elysium

Day 10
Shimla: Hotel Stay & Tour

In Himachal Pradesh, a beautiful hill state in northern India framed by the western Himalayas, you’ll venture out on your incredible walking trail, pausing at picturesque hill stations for a rest and to admire the compelling views.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11
Shimla: Hotel Stay

Set in the foothills of the Himalayas, Shimla welcomes visitors to enjoy its cooler temperatures and wander uninterrupted along the Mall, a pretty paved walkway in which to experience this city up close.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Welcomheritage Elysium

Day 12
Shimla: Tour & Delhi Hotel Stay

Today you’ll enjoy a sightseeing tour of Shimla, exploring highlights including the Shimla State Museum, Vice Regal Lodge, the Mock Tudor Library and Mall Road, the main street in Shimla.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Days 13 - 14
Delhi: Fly Home

Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Tour Highlights

Taj Mahal
Experience eternal love at the Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel symbolising romance. Explore its intricate details, rich history, and UNESCO status. Watch the stunning sunrise and embark on a captivating journey through time at this iconic site.
Agra Fort
Explore Agra Fort's timeless allure, a Mughal masterpiece blending red sandstone and white marble. Unearth regal stories within ancient walls, revealing palace opulence and serene courtyards. Immerse in its captivating heritage on a journey through time.
Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park, centered around the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, features ancient mosques, temples, and diverse flora and fauna. Its dry forests make it one of India's top national parks. Enjoy a two-night stay for thrilling jungle safaris, spotting leopards, boars, hyenas, sloth bears, macaques, and Bengal tigers*.
Himalayan Queen
Prepare for one of the most unique rail journeys on earth on board the rustic Himalayan Queen. Settle in as this compact locomotive traverses more than 100 tunnels and 800 bridges on this epic UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge railway. As the train winds its way upwards, delight in breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan landscape.
Amber Fort
Explore Amber Fort's regal world, nestled in the Aravalli Hills. Its opulent architecture, mirror work, and murals create an enchanting experience. Walk its ancient paths, immerse in valorous tales, and discover Sheesh Mahal and Maota Lake. Relish royal charm in this unique journey.
Kay McGrath
Exclusive to 3 February 2025 departure, join award-winning journalist and presenter Kay McGrath on an adventure through India’s Golden Triangle, experiencing immersive tours and exclusive dinners. As your companion on the journey, Kay will bring her warm humour and knowledge to the sights and landscapes of Northern India.

For prices please select your departure airport

Prices

Twin Share Prices from $5,099pp

Alternative Departure Dates
03 February 2025
03 Feb 2025
13 nights
Itinerary Includes: Delhi, , Agra, Ranthambore National Park, , Jaipur, , , Kalka, Shimla, , ,
Fr From $5,699pp

Solo Passenger Prices from $6,599pp

Alternative Departure Dates
03 February 2025
03 Feb 2025
13 nights
Itinerary Includes: Delhi, , Agra, Ranthambore National Park, , Jaipur, , , Kalka, Shimla, , ,
Fr From $7,499pp

Your Hotel Stays

New Delhi

Included Hotel

Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka (Or Similar)

The elegant and spacious Vivanta Dwarka envelopes its guests in five-star comfort the moment they step inside. Its bold design, with tall ceilings, airy corridors and magnificent colour contrasts, invites guests to relax and unwind. After a busy day sightseeing, take a rest in your stylish and well-appointed room with chic furnishings and avant-garde windows offering views of the city. The two distinct restaurants entice guests with exotic menus and innovative cuisine from around the world, while the contemporary bar serves exotic cocktails and premium spirits.

Shimla

Included Hotel

WelcomHeritage Elysium Resort & Spa (Or Similar)

Escape to the enchanting WelcomHeritage Elysium Resort & Spa in Shimla, where nature and luxury unite for an unforgettable retreat. Nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills, this haven offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Discover elegant rooms, world-class spa treatments, and delectable cuisine while soaking in breathtaking mountain views. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Elysium has it all. Immerse yourself in the charm of Shimla while indulging in the finest amenities.

Agra

Included Hotel

ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra (Or Similar)

Feel like royalty during your stay at ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra, aptly named after the dynasty who built the nearby Taj Mahal. Enjoy the 23 acres of lush Mughal-style gardens, with the characteristic use of water channels, fruit trees, flowers and shaded walkways, and choose from an array of delectable fine dining options. From the opulent rooms and suites boasting a spacious place to rest with pleasant gardens to the resplendent Kaya Kalp featuring 8 treatment rooms and its own swimming pool surrounded by fragrant frangipani trees, your stay here will be nothing short of splendid.

Ranthambore

Included Hotel

Hotel Ranthambore Regency (Or Similar)

Delve into the wonderful wildlife of India at Hotel Ranthambore Regency. Nestled in the heart of Ranthambore National Park, this enchanting oasis promises an unforgettable escape. Relax in rooms adorned with traditional Rajasthani decor while making use of the property’s modern amenities. Savour delectable Indian and international cuisine at gourmet restaurants and embark on thrilling jungle safaris in search of elusive tigers. Let Hotel Ranthambore Regency’s warm and attentive staff cater to your every need.

Jaipur

Included Hotel

ITC Rajputana, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Jaipur (Or Similar)

Immerse yourself in the romance and majesty of the royal era during a stay at the five-star ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jaipur located in the heart of the city. All 218 individually decorated rooms include comforts such as 24-hour room service and premium bedding, as well as pillow menus and air conditioning. Feast on Rajasthani delicacies and dishes from around the world at the Jaipur Pavilion or lavish buffets at the Jal Mahal and enjoy a sundowner at the Sheesh Mahal Bar or at the poolside lounge, Jharokha.

Saver Fares

Enjoy the same exceptional value with our holiday packages featuring hotel stays, memorable tours, and iconic rail journeys around the world, all without transfers* included – travel your way with Imagine Holidays.

*Available at an additional cost, call one of our Holiday Experts for more details.

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